Rental Car Cost Coverage After an Accident Explained

After a car accident, you may find yourself without a vehicle while your car undergoes repairs or while you search for a replacement. In these situations, a rental car can provide a convenient solution to help you maintain your daily routine. However, the question of who pays for the rental car after a car accident can be confusing. This post will explore rental vehicle cost coverage options and help you understand your rights and responsibilities when making a car accident claim.

Does the At-Fault Driver Pay for My Rental Car?

Who pays for your rental car after a car accident, if you have personal injuries or property damages? In most cases, if another driver caused an accident that damaged your vehicle, their insurance company should cover the cost of repairs for your rental car. This coverage falls under the at-fault driver’s liability insurance, which typically includes provisions for rental car expenses while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced.

To secure rental car coverage from the at-fault driver’s insurance, you’ll need to provide evidence that the other driver was responsible for the accident. This evidence may include:

• Police report
• Witness statements
• Photos or video footage of the accident scene
• Admission of fault by the other driver

Once you’ve established the other driver’s liability, their insurance company will likely provide you with information on how to arrange for a rental car. Some insurance companies may partner with specific rental car agencies, while others may require you or the insured pay for the rental upfront and then file a claim for reimbursement. Some insurance coverage may also have collision damage waivers that can prevent you from claiming insurance.

Will Insurance Cover My Rental Car After an Accident?

If you have rental car coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, who pays for rental car damages after a car accident? Your rental car coverage can cover rental car repairs or replacement after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. There are two common types of rental car coverage:

• Rental reimbursement coverage: This optional coverage reimburses you after you’ve paid for a rental car while your vehicle undergoes repairs following a covered accident. It usually comes with daily and total limits, so carefully review your policy or contact your insurance provider for specifics. Also, check if you have diligently paid your insurance premiums as these may affect your coverage.
• Loss of use coverage: Check if your personal auto insurance has a loss of use clause that you can use. If your car is deemed a total loss after an accident, loss of use coverage can pay for a rental car while you search for a replacement vehicle. Like rental reimbursement coverage, loss of use coverage usually has daily and total limits.

If you don’t have rental car coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, check your credit cards if they provide coverage. If not, you may need to pay out of pocket and then seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company.

Insurance Claim Process for Rental Car Coverage

To obtain rental car coverage through an insurance claim, you’ll need to follow these general steps:

• Report the accident to your insurance company immediately. Provide them with all relevant details and evidence to support your claim. Speak with your insurance adjustor.
• If you have rental car coverage, request a rental car from your insurance provider. Let them know you need a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced.
• No rental car coverage? Contact the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Initiate the accident claims process and request rental car coverage during repairs. Also, you can check if the at-fault driver has other types of insurance that can apply to the situation.
• Follow the insurance company’s instructions for renting a car. This might involve using a specific rental agency or submitting receipts for reimbursement later.
• Track all rental car expenses meticulously. You may need to provide documentation to the insurance company for processing.
• Keep all receipts. Submit them to the appropriate insurance company for reimbursement once repairs are complete.

Loss of Use Coverage

Even if your car is totaled, you might still get rental car coverage while searching for a replacement.

Loss of use coverage in your auto policy can help. Review your policy or contact your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your loss of use coverage.

No loss of use coverage? Negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. You might be able to secure rental car coverage during your search. In some cases, the insurance company may offer a lump sum settlement that includes money for rental car expenses.

Work with a Car Accident Lawyer

If it’s difficult to secure rental car coverage after an accident or if your insurance claim has challenges, working with a car accident lawyer can be beneficial. An experienced attorney knows how to:

• Help you understand your rights and options for rental car coverage
• Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
• Collect evidence to support your claim and demonstrate the other driver’s liability
• Negotiate with insurance adjusters to obtain fair compensation for your rental car expenses and other damages
• Represent you in court to protect your rights and interests under state laws

At London Harker Injury Law, our knowledgeable car accident attorneys have extensive experience helping clients navigate the complexities of insurance claims and rental car coverage. We understand the challenges you face after an accident and are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Rental Car Costs and Insurance Coverage

The cost of a rental car depends on factors such as the type of vehicle, rental company, and location. When selecting a rental car, it’s essential to choose a vehicle that is comparable in size and features to your own car to avoid excessive or unnecessary expenses.

Most insurance policies that offer rental car coverage have daily and total limits. For example, your policy may cover up to $30 per day, with a total limit of $900. Be sure to review your policy or contact your insurance provider to understand the specific limits of your coverage.

If you need a rental car for an extended period or if your rental costs exceed your coverage limits, you may need to pay some expenses out of pocket. In these cases, it’s crucial to keep all documentation and receipts, as you may be able to get reimbursed by the at-fault driver’s insurance company.

Protect Your Rights with London Harker Injury Law

Eliminate the undue stress and confusion associated with post-accident rental car coverage. Schedule a complimentary consultation with London Harker Injury Law today by calling 77CARCRASH or contacting us online. Our seasoned car accident attorneys are prepared to address your inquiries and explore all available legal options.

Wherever you are in Utah, our Sandy car accident attorneys and Provo car accident attorneys empower you to proceed confidently throughout the legal process.